Delta community razed after killing of soldiers in communal clash

Several houses in the coastal and rustic Okuoma community,
in the Bomadi LGA of Delta state, were on fire, hours after 16 military
personnel on a peacekeeping mission were killed.

Tukur Gusau, director of information at the defence
headquarters, in a statement on Saturday, said the military personnel —
comprising a lieutenant ​colonel, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers —
were killed by youths on Thursday.

“The troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Bomadi Local
Government Area of Delta State, while on a peace mission to Okuoma community in
BOMADI LGA of Delta State were surrounded by some community youths and killed
on Thursday, 14 March 2024,” Gusau said.

“The unfortunate incident occurred when the troops responded
to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuoma and Okoloba
communities both in Delta State.

 “The reinforcement
team led by the Commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the death of
the Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain, and 12 Soldiers.”